This programme is making a significant contribution to the eradication of blindness and vision impairment among the children of KwaZulu-Natal. Most of the children examined and receiving glasses have never had an eye exam – only 19% of those with refractive error, who need correction, have previously received treatment.

The programme is being conducted in partnership with the KwaZulu-Natal provincial government, involving collaborations with both education and health ministries, which should lead to a swift integration of the vision screening programme into the health and school systems of KwaZulu-Natal. The project also involves the development of a model for vision screening which can be duplicated in other parts of the country. It addresses a long standing problem of different approaches to vision screening.

The project is rolling out in all 11 health districts of KZN. To date 239,906 children have undergone vision screening – the largest number in Sub-Saharan Africa. To date 84 people, who previously worked as volunteers within the Department of Health, have been skilled in vision screening. A further four optometrists have received intensive training in low vision to assist in the provision of low vision services.

The development of skills and greater employment prospects for the trained personnel enhances a sense of empowerment, as well as building the sustainability of the screening programme being implemented.

The sustainability of the programme is dependent upon the continued involvement of the government. With two ministries currently involved, the prospects look good. The challenge for ICEE, through advocacy efforts, is to ensure the incorporation of the model into the planning and implementation process of all provincial governments.

Significant research protocols have been built into the project. This ensures that, apart from delivering essential eye care, training local personnel and enhancing the sustainability of eye care services, ICEE is able to undertake critical investigations into a number of aspects of eye care. The data retrieved from the project will assist in the development of a sustainable model for child eye care delivery for children throughout South Africa.

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Approximately 17 million children, worldwide, with low or impaired vision lack access to critical aids, services or glasses to improve their vision. If left uncorrected their vision problems will result in fewer education opportunities and significantly diminished future economic advantages compared to children with good vision.

ICEE is developing and implementing a comprehensive service delivery programme in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa to ensure that all children have access to affordable eye care.

The KwaZulu-Natal Child Eye Care Programme received a two year funding grant in 2006 from the USAID A2Z Child Blindness Programme. To learn more about the USAID A2Z Child Blindness Programme click here.